Man-Sized-in-Marble by E Nesbit

Although every word of this story is true, I do not expect people to believe it.

Man-Size-in-Marble by E. Nesbit (1893) retold by Kieran McGovern

Man-Size-in-Marble is a story about a young married couple. It is told by the husband – we never learn his name.

Because the narrator’s wife, Laura, is in poor health, the couple leave London. They rent a pretty cottage in the countryside.

Near their home there is beautiful church. To reach it they must walk through a wood and a churchyard. Inside the church are two marble statues.

Before Listening

The story takes place in late October, in the period leading up to Halloween.

  1. On which date does Halloween take place?
  2. Write down two more things you know about Halloween

Check your answers : What is Halloween?

Listen to this extract from the first part of the story

Listen to complete Part 1 retold by Kieran McGovern

Inside, the church was dark and gloomy. On each side of the aisle there was a grey marble statue of a knight. ‘Mrs. Dorman says that they should not be here,’ Laura told me.

Why do you think Mrs Dorman warns the couple about the church?

Read Part One Text with comprehension questions

Vocabulary Worksheet * Part One (adapted) * Part 2 (adapted) * Original text

Before Listening to Part 2

Later the narrator returns to the church at night, walking through a dark wood. What do you think will happen?

Complete story (text and audio) plus worksheets other free resources here

Part 1 * Part 2 (adapted text) * Original text

This version of story is aimed at English language learners and reluctant readers. It is free to access & includes audio narration and comprehension activities.

The original text is advised for cross-reference &/or use with higher levels (B2+) and/or stronger readers.